Donald Trump, United States president, has endorsed Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister ahead of Israel’s October 27 parliamentary election, as the longtime leader seeks to strengthen his position. Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership and described him as a partner in efforts to secure peace. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called Netanyahu a “great warrior prime minister”, saying he had remained strong despite significant opposition.
He also credited the Israeli leader with joining the United States in launching strikes against Iran in February. The conflict, now in its seventh month, has disrupted global energy markets and damaged critical infrastructure across the Middle East. Trump described Netanyahu as having grown stronger under pressure and said he had watched him navigate difficult circumstances. However, the endorsement may not necessarily boost Netanyahu or his right-wing Likud party.
Israeli public support for Trump has declined amid disagreements between the two governments over Iran, potentially limiting the impact of his backing. France is assessing widespread damage after demonstrations over rising fuel prices, living costs and deteriorating public services escalated into riots and looting in several cities. Paris, Marseille and Lille were among the areas affected, with burnt-out cars, shattered shopfronts and debris left across streets.
About 550,000 people took part in Saturday’s demonstrations, most of which were peaceful, while police arrested approximately 1,800 people. Some masked groups set fire to vehicles and buildings, looted shops and clashed with riot police, who used tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds. France’s interior ministry said more than 500 police officers, gendarmes and firefighters were injured.
The Retail and Trade Federation reported that about 1,500 shops and retailers were damaged, including designer stores in Paris. A restaurant was gutted by fire, while a McDonald’s restaurant in Lille was also reportedly set alight.